Lab Technician - Technician II - Department of Neurobiology and Behavior (The Fernandez-Ruiz & Oliva Labs)

The Department of Neurobiology and Behavior (NBB) was one of the very first departments to combine the study of animal behavior with its neural basis, based on the belief that the interface between them was one of great research potential. The interests of our faculty and students span all levels of organization, from single neurons to complex circuits to whole organisms and societies thereof.

   

While position responsibilities vary, every member of our community is expected to foster a culture of belonging and a psychologically healthy work environment by communicating across differences; being cooperative, collaborative, open, and welcoming; showing respect, compassion, and empathy; engaging and supporting others regardless of background or perspective; speaking up when others are being excluded or treated inappropriately; and supporting work/life integration of oneself and others.

The Fernandez-Ruiz & Oliva labs employ a multi-disciplinary approach, including the development and application of cutting-edge experimental and computational techniques, to understand the algorithms and mechanisms that support flexible behavior. We use large-scale electrophysiology and imaging to record hundreds to thousands of neurons across multiple brain areas during behavior. To test the role of specific cell types and brain patterns we perform closed-loop optogenetic manipulations of neural activity, allowing refinement and updating of the theories guiding experiment. In doing so, our experiments inform new theories and models of neural mechanisms of behavior, allowing a continual dialogue between experiment and theory.

The Lab Technician will provide lab support for studies of rodents. This involves daily handling of animals, preparation and surgery on the mice and rats, and post-surgery care. Other responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Handle mice and rats to maintain healthy colonies.
• Perform genotyping of the animals to determine genotypes
• Maintain overall laboratory order and organization.
• Prepare standard media, buffers and reagents.
• Routine laboratory maintenance (preparation of solutions, dish washing, etc.) as needed.
• Assist in analyzing research data and preparing data for publication in papers, grant proposals, and scientific presentations.
• Adhere to lab safety protocols with a solid understanding of laboratory safety techniques and procedures.

This is a full-time (39 hours per week) 24-month term appointment with the possibility of extension contingent on successful performance and continued funding.

Required Qualifications:

• HS diploma and up to 2 years relevant experience or equivalent combination.
• Working knowledge of undergraduate chemistry, biology and statistics.
• Strong reasoning skills and judgment are necessary.
• Must be personable, flexible, possess excellent organizational and communication skills and take pride in their work. Ability to work effectively with hazardous chemicals and biohazards; be familiar with and follow safety protocol and procedures at all times. 
• Be able to occasionally work irregular hours.
• Demonstrated ability to multitask and balance priorities when necessary.
• Must be able to carry out experiments to completion with moderate guidance.
• Strong attention to detail. 
• Must be able to work independently as well as in a team environment to accomplish required tasks.
• Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and wellbeing. Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive and equitable working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree, 2 years of college coursework or equivalent in biology, chemistry or related field.
• More than 6 months and less than 1 year laboratory experience in coursework or research laboratory.
• Previous experience with animal care, genotyping, data entry skills, good organizational skills, and punctuality are desirable.

No visa sponsorship provided

Your completed application will include a resume and cover letter. We have found it most efficient to save it as one document prior to attaching. Applications will be accepted until Monday, April 1, 2024.

   

Familiarize yourself with Cornell's COVID-19 workplace guidance as well as the university's COVID-19 services and information .

  

University Job Title:

Technician II

Job Family:

Technical

Level:

B

Pay Rate Type:

Hourly

Pay Range:

$19.92 - $22.02

Remote Option Availability:

Fully Onsite

Company:

Endowed

Contact Name:

Melissa West

Job Titles and Pay Ranges:

Non-Union Positions

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• Prior relevant work or industry experience

• Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position

• Unique applicable skills

• Academic Discipline (faculty pay ranges reflects 9-month annual salary)

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2024-03-15